Plan ahead for Community Health Day Bennington | October 15th, 2026 at Bennington Project Independence |12 pm - 2pm | Free Lunch | Health Screenings & Vaccines | Over 15 community partners sharing resources | ALL ARE WELCOME

Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging

EMPOWERING VERMONTERS TO AGE WITH DIGNITY, INDEPENDENCE, AND QUALITY OF LIFE.

geism Awareness Day graphic featuring bold white and gold text on a navy blue background, with light blue and gold rays extending from a white circle displaying the date October 9.

October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day: Language Matters

Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (SVCOA) proudly recognizes Ageism Awareness Day, a time to challenge age-related stereotypes, celebrate the contributions of older adults, and promote dignity and respect for people of all ages. Ageism can influence how we think, speak, and interact with others, often creating unnecessary barriers for older adults in our communities. One of the simplest ways we can combat ageism is through the words we choose.

 In recognition of this important day, SVCOA invites you to download “Dismantling Ageism: Language Matters!”, a valuable resource provided by our partners at the Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging. This guide offers practical tips for using respectful, inclusive language and challenging common misconceptions about aging. Download the free guide today, share it with your friends, family, and colleagues, and join SVCOA in changing the conversation about aging, because everyone deserves to be valued, respected, and empowered at every stage of life!

Download your Language Matters Free Resource Here

SVCOA flyer for Bennington Community Health Day on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from noon to 2 PM at Bennington Project Independence. Free and open to everyone, with health screenings, vaccines, local resources, support, and lunch. Photo shows an older woman smiling and talking with another woman. Sponsored by AARP and The Bank of Bennington. For information, call 1-800-642-5119 or visit svcoa.org.

Mark Your Calendars Community Health Days are back this fall.

Join Us in Bennington October 15th


Community Health Day brings local and statewide organizations together in one place, making it easy to learn about programs, ask questions, meet service providers, and discover resources that can support your health and well-being.

Throughout the day, you can:

• Connect one-on-one with local health and community organizations
• Learn about programs and services available in our area
• Get information and support for caregivers
• Explore resources for healthy aging and independent living
• Learn about opportunities for recreation, wellness, and staying active
• Enjoy a free chair massage from In The Moment Massage Therapy
• Access vaccines on site 
• Enjoy a free lunch

Everything You Need to Know

Our 2025 Impact Report is Here